Additive manufacturing

Additive manufacturing builds three-dimensional objects by adding material in successive layers from digital design data. It contrasts with processes that shape or remove material from a larger workpiece.

Fused deposition modeling: A 3D-printing process that extrudes thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle to form successive layers. It is a widely used way to build parts by depositing melted polymer along programmed paths.
Computer-aided design: The use of computer software to create, modify, analyze, or document designs. Additive builds usually begin with a digital model describing the intended geometry.
Custom prosthesis: A replacement or assistive body part made to fit an individual patient's anatomy and needs. Digital scans and additive fabrication can support individualized shapes and fit.
Subtractive manufacturing: Manufacturing that removes material from a workpiece to create a desired shape. It forms parts by cutting away stock, the opposite material strategy from additive building.
Chuck Hull: An American engineer who developed stereolithography and co-founded 3D Systems. His work helped establish a practical early process for fabricating objects from digital data.
Stereolithography: A 3D-printing process that selectively cures liquid photopolymer resin with light. It builds layers by solidifying resin rather than depositing a filament or powder.
STL (file format): A file format that represents a three-dimensional surface as a mesh of triangles. STL has long served as a common bridge from design models to printing workflows.
Patient-specific implant: A medical implant designed around the anatomy of a particular patient. Additive methods can form complex implant geometries from patient imaging and design data.
Injection molding: A manufacturing process that injects molten material into a mold, where it solidifies into a part. It requires tooling but can produce large quantities of consistent parts efficiently.
Stereolithography apparatus: A machine that forms solid objects by selectively curing photopolymer resin with light. The early commercial system made layer-by-layer fabrication available as a production technology.

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